Meet Vijendra, the stranger who comforted Siddaramaiah in Belgium
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Vijendra, a Kannadiga who had never met Siddaramaiah or his family before, rushed to the hospital where the CM's son Rakesh was admitted and made the family his guests in Belgium.
A techie by profession, Vijendra and his wife had settled in Belgium three years ago. Taking leave from his office, Vijayendra and his wife treated Siddaramaiah’s family to home-cooked food and tried to raise their flagging spirits.
The couple was in the hospital with Siddaramaiah’s family until Rakesh breathed his last.
Speaking to Shivakumara Menasinakayi, Vijendra said Siddaramaiah changed his perception of a politician.
“Siddaramaiah was silent most of the time and was trying to instil confidence among his family members. He made sure not to break down himself. He was continuously in touch with doctors and listened to them patiently. Until the last moment, he had hope that his son will recover,” said Vijendra.
“My parents are from Gundlupet and wife is from Bengaluru. I had never met Siddaramaiah before. But I had seen his photo in the newspaper. But in three days he spent with us, his working style, nature and concern for people changed my perception about politicians in a good way,” he said.
Speaking further he said, “When Siddaramaiah got a call regarding the heavy downpour in Bengaluru, he constantly kept in touch with officers and was guiding them even during the painful condition he was in. I learnt that whatever situation we are in, we have to think about the larger goal.”
“Being a Kannadiga, it was my duty to be with Siddaramaiah and his family. I don’t consider this as a help. But I will always have the sorrow that Rakesh could not be saved. Let the God give Siddaramaiah and his family the strength to bear such pain,” he said, with eyes filled with tears.
